Grooming is an essential part of your dog’s health. And whether you get him groomed once a month or only on special occasions, selecting the right groomer is one of the most significant decisions you can make. After all, you’re entrusting your dog to this expert’s care.
Licensed pet groomers are trained to listen, understand, and work with you to achieve effective solutions that meet your companion’s needs.
Finding a groomer
To find a groomer, ask friends, acquaintances, co-workers and family for contacts they have hired and would recommend. When you have a name, consider calling or emailing the National Groomer Association of Canada or the National Agency of Pet Grooming Schools (NAPGS) to verify if the recommendation is a member in good standing.
Take time to interview a number of pet groomers before making a final decision. When you meet, the groomer should explain the process, how she works and how she
charges for her services. She should also ask you in-depth questions about your needs and the needs of your pet. It’s important that you feel the groomer’s approach is in line with your objectives and the needs of your dog, and that you both feel comfortable with the prospect of working together.
Before making a decision, consider the groomer’s:
• Experience in successfully providing similar services
• Overall history and reputation
• Management experience and skills
• Technical competence
• U nique value-added qualities, such as creativity and innovation
• Commitment to the client’s interests and the safety of the animals in her care
• Quality of references
These points will help ensure you choose a Licensed Groomer of Achievement or an experienced groomer who can look after your companion with care and talent from start to finish.
What you should expect from your groomer
While each grooming session may be different, a groomer will generally perform the following services:
• Analyze your needs and goals
• Assess your dog’s health and overall coat condition
• Make a grooming recommendation based on the above, her knowledge of grooming various breeds, current trends, and legal and regulatory requirements – these recommendations should be financially agreeable to you
• Collaborate with other practitioners who offer professional services in the overall care of your dog
• Offer a safe environment for your companion
AUTHOR PROFILE
Lesley Weeks is the founder and owner of Pampered Paws Limited as well as a breeder under the prefix Caix's Reg'd. Kennels. Lesley has owned and bred multiple Best in Show dogs (Standard and Miniature Schnauzers) in both Canada and the U.S., and brings over 30 years experience in the Show Dog world to the grooming profession. She is an international teacher and has been featured on TV and in many newspapers and magazines.
